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Anthony Joshua says just because Dillian Whyte is more popular than Jermaine Franklin does not means he is better.
British boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Joshua has explained his decision to pick an opponent for his return to the ring.
After two losses to Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk, Joshua took a break from the sport in 2022 for a return this year.
Joshua on his return is now set to face fast-rising American boxing star Jermaine Franklin at the 02 Arena in London.
Franklin is not highly rated by any of the sanctioned boxing organizations and fans have questioned Joshua’s decision to take on the American.
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Joshua explains choosing Franklin over Whyte
Franklin was last in action against Whyte at the 02 Arena in London in a fight that went the full 12 rounds.
Whyte was able to get the decision victory against Franklin and there were conversations that he was set for a rematch against Joshua.
Despite the win against Franklin, Whyte was not Joshua's preferred choice for his return despite being under the same Matchroom boxing management led by promoter Eddie Hearn.
Joshua in an interview with DAZN has explained why he picked Franklin despite the loss to Whyte.
He said: “I actually rate him, I think he’s very talented. He’s from boxing stocks, he’s got moves, he’s got skills, he’s got a good counter, hooker, jabber, work rate. Don’t underestimate this kid.
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“Cos Whyte’s popular, doesn’t mean he’s going to win. It’s not a popularity contest, it’s a fight. Jermaine Franklins’ a fighter, whether you know of him, that’s your own research.
“But in terms of talent, he’s coming to fight you and take your head off, that’s what he tried to do with Dillian.
“His opponent is still worthy enough to step in the ring with him. It’s people who have big expectations, who think they know so much about the sport.
“In order to get a big fight you have to go through that process, I’m not saying that I’ve gone and beaten him already, but God willing I pass this test, that can lead to another fight and another fight to another massive fight.
Joshua will take on Franklin at the 02 Arena in London on Saturday, April 1, 2023.
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